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Grow Your Own

Celeriac

Botanically speaking, the edible part of celeriac is a swollen stem. Hardier and more disease resistant than its relative, celery, it has a similar flavour and aroma. Recent introductions have been bred to produce less knobbly 'bulbs' which are easier to prepare in the kitchen.

Sow

Sow in pots in a propagator, at 15-18°C (59-65°F), in March or in a cold frame, sowing seeds thinly.

Germination can be erratic.

Ideally, grow on in a frost-free glasshouse or cold frame, although good results are possible on a bright windowsill.

Grow

Transfer single seedlings to individual small pots as soon as they can be handled. Maintain temperatures of 15-18°C (60-65°F), as excessive cold can lead to premature flowering (bolting).

Celeriac is a moisture-loving plant that needs fertile, organic rich, moisture retentive soil and prefers full sun. Keep the soil constantly moist – it should never be allowed to dry out. Water before the onset of drought; mulching helps, too. Keep the ground weed free.

As the plants mature, remove the outer leaves as they fall horizontal, to expose the crown and allow it to develop. Remove side shoots if they appear.